In 1989 R&D Instructional Services, Inc., now Spectrum Support, Inc., began supporting people with developmental disabilities who were living in Maryland’s psychiatric hospitals. While we still support people living in state institutions, we have expanded our scope to meet the vast array of needs and challenges faced by individuals living on their own, or with family or friends.

Supports are provided in the Baltimore, Columbia, Sykesville, Frederick, Hagerstown and Cumberland locales of Maryland, and the greater Memphis area of Tennessee.  In FY 03 we  consolidated administrative offices and moved them to Carroll County, Maryland . And, we are happy to announce the launch of our web site: www.spectrum-support.org.

We now provide supported employment, day habilitation, community supported living, and family and individual supports to over 230 persons who have complex behavioral, mental health, and or medical challenges. By “listening” to the spoken and unspoken messages we assist them in their entry and participation in the community. We also provide transportation so as to facilitate full community involvement.

We are pleased that in spite of tight fiscal times, we increased the wages of staff in Tennessee by 3%. In Maryland, we passed along the funds received through the legislatively mandated Wage Initiative, for which the staff, individuals, friends and extended family advocated. This resulted in direct support staff wage increases of between 2.5% and 6%. Also, in keeping with the intent of the legislation, the starting wage was increased this year. As a part of cost containment measures by the State and within Spectrum Support, Inc., and in conformance with the legislation, management staff received none of the initiative funds.

We have developed an aggressive strategic plan focusing on the growth of existing services and expansion into residential services in Maryland; and creating a Contracts division in Tennessee to provide professional staff to the DD community on a contractual basis. Additionally, non-governmental funding sources are being sought. Most importantly, we have been and continue to be committed to maintaining and improving quality supports by focusing on the desired outcomes identified by individuals. One of the factors in achieving these goals is demonstrating our commitment to staff by enhancing their abilities through increased training and development and affording them opportunities for personal and professional growth within Spectrum Support, Inc.

We are excited about the growth of the past year. As we grow further, we will continue to emphasize our high standards of building upon the strengths of each individual and assisting in establishing supportive communities that meet each person’s goals and preferences.